From Tragedy
Beautiful Things Can Grow by Yazmin Maldonado
Uplifting stories have been few and far between in 2020. The climate of the country and of the world over has left many of us feeling broken and defeated. Those from Lorain may resonate with these feelings, yet one thing we have learned through our trials is hard times make for a stronger us. Lorain resident and President of the Lorain County Urban League Guild, Sylvia Duvall, understands all too well how from tragedy beautiful things can grow. Sylvia grew up in Sandusky, Ohio, and after graduating from Bowling Green State University, went on to teach in the Lorain City School District for 33 years. Currently, the First Vice President of the National Council of Negro Women (NCNW), Sylvia’s accolades and contributions to the community speak highly to how she has lived her life. Those who know her have a deep respect for the causes she fights for and are in awe of her ability to accomplish a goal. Recently honored as a Hometown Hero, Sylvia’s dedication to the community continues to enhance the beauty and strength of Lorain. Endless accounts can be told of Sylvia’s service. Her devotion to the black community and the city of Lorain is evident through her work. Yet, her most heartbreaking moment as a mother is what gave way to her most heartfelt thank you to the city of Lorain. In 2016, Sylvia’s son, Kerry Hathorn, was struck by a car and killed while jogging. Kerry was training for the New York City Marathon only a few short weeks away. Similar to his mother he was devoted to the betterment of the community around him and was known by many as a mentor, a humanitarian, and a teacher. As intelligent as he was charitable and kind, the world lost a great man in Kerry. The community felt Sylvia’s pain.
The Beautification of a Steel City Steel is the strongest alloy known to man. Developed from iron, steel is known for its strength and resilient properties. It can weather the strongest storm and be rebuilt without any loss in quality. Although Lorain was given the nickname the “Steel City” from the industry that once heavily supported and nourished our area, what most of us have come to see is that as a community we share that same resilient attribute as steel.
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But as strong as we are, we have demonstrated on many occasions that we are equally caring and giving. During the tragic moments that occurred following the passing of her son, Sylvia gained an outpouring of support from the city she so graciously dedicated her time and efforts. To honor Kerry’s life, The Kerry Hathorn Project was created. The funds donated would be reinvested into the community and used towards the beautification of downtown Lorain.
Lorain Local Magazine | page 8
